July is National Minority Mental Health Awareness Month

Every July, we recognize Bebe Moore Campbell National Minority Mental Health Awareness Month, a time to raise awareness about the unique mental health challenges experienced by historically underserved communities and to advocate for equitable access to care. 
Established by Congress in 2008, the month honors author, journalist, and mental health advocate Bebe Moore Campbell, whose work helped break down stigma and amplify the importance of culturally responsive mental health services. She believed that everyone deserves to feel seen, heard, and supported regardless of their race, ethnicity, language, or background. 
While mental health conditions affect people of every background, communities of color often face additional barriers to receiving care. Cultural stigma, language differences, limited access to providers who understand diverse lived experiences, and systemic inequities can make it more difficult to seek help or receive appropriate treatment. These disparities highlight the importance of creating mental health services that are accessible, inclusive, and culturally informed. 
At JFS, we believe that mental health care should be compassionate, welcoming, and responsive to each person's unique experiences. Through Thrive Counseling and our trauma-informed services, we are committed to helping individuals and families access the support they need in an environment where they feel respected and understood. 
This month, and every month, we encourage everyone to help reduce stigma by talking openly about mental health, checking in with loved ones, and reminding those who may be struggling that seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness. 
Together, we can build a community where everyone has the opportunity to thrive.